H4 to F1 - Who files for COS?

[aru123n]

Hi,

I am currently on H4 visa. I plan to take a masters course, for which I would like to change my visa status from H4 to F1. I will be arriving in the US in mid July, and I wish to take up a course beginning August 2012

I have the following 3 questions:
- Is it the university that applies for COS? or Do I have to apply for it directly with USCIS?
- Can I immediately apply for COS?
- What are the parameters on which a COS from H4 to F1 is approved?

[kabkaba]

Hi,

I am currently on H4 visa. I plan to take a masters course, for which I would like to change my visa status from H4 to F1. I will be arriving in the US in mid July, and I wish to take up a course beginning August 2012

I have the following 3 questions:
- Is it the university that applies for COS? or Do I have to apply for it directly with USCIS?
It is your application. The university may help you file it.
- Can I immediately apply for COS?
Since you are not in the US right now, there is no status to change from. You can only apply after arriving in US. Alternatively, you can directly apply for F1 Visa in your home country, and travel in F1 status up to 30 days before start of classes.
- What are the parameters on which a COS from H4 to F1 is approved?

See above.